Keep calm, big move onto decent smear – nothing for hands, crimp hard, more big moves, backs hurting, now the crux – shit I’ve been holding my breath! Try to keep calm, leg shakes / mind melts, time to back off……

Getting on Bonnie Fetcher (E4,6b)

Having nursed a back injury all season it was great to return to rock, especially as Kev, Emma and I were basking in the sunshine at my favourite crag close to the small hamlet of Lochailort. Last season Kev and I did some of our best routes together, so after a long spell away from success I was keen to get back to winning formula and climb something significant. As it happened the lay off had made me nervous on lead, not only of the prospect of a bold climb but the impact it would have on my recovering injury should I take a fall. I know the route will always be there but I have to admit loosing a bit of the ‘head game’ did leave me feeling like I had let myself down a little. On a positive note I can still get out and enjoy the mountains with friends and clients, I just have to lower my personal climbing goals for now……….

Its not all doom and gloom ……..

Kev destroying another cleaning brush whilst on the hunt for more new routes

Kev spent the day cleaning more potential new routes whilst Emma had a ball adding two new routes to the lower slab – MJD (S) and Nathan’s Dirty Crack (VD). Well done her!

Emma on the FA of Nathan’s Dirty Crack (VD)

Happy days!

FA – MJD (S)